From a huge continent to a small island

14 years ago, around this date I posted “From a small island to a huge continent.” The land masses referred to were Guernsey and South America, the occasion being our move to our new place of ministry serving the church in Northern Argentina.

Lots has happened in those 14 years, some of which is reported in these blogs (although recent months have been a bit sparse on the blog front! I propose to post one photo and comment for each month missed, just to remember the huge continent at a glance). For Catherine’s more frequent blogs see http://www.catleti.wordpress.com

And now we are enjoying the prospect of returning for a season to the “small island” to serve as House for Duty priest-in-charge at the historic parish church of Ste Marie du Castel.

Whilst we miss the vast beauty of Latin America, we are also drawn to the “hiddenness “of the islands. It is a time for healing and quiet service.

“Sing to the Lord a new song,

Sing His praises from the end of the earth!

You who go down to the sea, and all that is in it,

You islands, and those who dwell on them.”

Isaiah 42.10

The prophet also addresses the islands (isles, coastlands) in chapters 41 and 49.

Obviously, there is the attraction of being near at least part of our family. But we are in a very different place to when we left. The time as an active bishop has been unforgettable. But then I hit a brick wall. Burnout, or simply fatigue made travelling ministry so much harder, and in January I ended up in hospital with a “coronary episode”.

After major surgery, grateful to be alive, and for the outpouring of love and prayers, it was as if my body took the decision to behave as though I was now 70, and seriously slow down. 9 months later, and after huge efforts to try and be back to strength, I am having to accept the limitations and possibly a diagnosis of some unexpected pathology.

The task of pastoral work in a Guernsey Parish seems daunting at this stage as I find standing a challenge. But we are irresistibly drawn to this next challenge (or “fearful adventure”) as we head for the islands and the call to make Jesus known.

Guernsey at night from Castel church

Cobo bay slipway

Further up the coast

Guernsey as seen from Plemont, Jersey

Town Church, which claims to be the nearest church to a pub in Britain!

Cobo Bay